The Central Terminal Building at OR Tambo International Airport, South Africa

With its massive Y-shaped columns and clever use of concrete and glass, the Central Terminal Building (CTB) at OR Tambo International Airport is both striking and devoid of the heavy, boxed-in feeling that so many high traffic airports share. The CTB not only forms the central link between the international and domestic terminals, but also links the multi-storey parking garage and new Gautrain Station at OR Tambo International Airport. Its completion sets a new benchmark for design efficacy, functional flexibility and construction quality in that it is purposefully designed yet still manages to impress those who enter its doors with breathtakingly clean lines and purposefully robust surfaces.

The completion of the new CTB was vital for the success of the 2010 FIFA World Cup as the airport served as the key point of entry to and from South Africa, forming a literal 'gateway to Africa' for all tourists.

Aurecon's involvement in the project comprised the civil and structural engineering which included the implementation of a complex glass and aluminium façade system which is pivotal to the CTB's visual appeal. In addition, Aurecon also provided wet services and mechanical engineering, including HVAC.

This project illustrates the expertise that enhances Aurecon’s reputation for providing quality technical engineering services for large, complex projects. The CTB required that the construction of the project be completed in a way that interruption of existing operations was minimised. This involved careful sequencing and collaboration with professional team, including the client and the contractor.